Counseling Team

Since 1964, Camp Deer Run has been blessed with an incredibly diverse staff. We draw this capable group from leading colleges and universities across the country, including Princeton Theological Seminary, Wheaton College, Cornell University, Georgetown, LeTourneau University, Gordon College, Harvard University, Grove City College, Cedarville University, Notre Dame, Grace College, Taylor University, Liberty University, Biola University, and many others. Approximately 85% of the staff return each year which ensures a stable core group of counselors with enough new hires to bring in fresh ideas each year.

Keep this team in your prayers as they serve our campers and guests with every talent that God has entrusted to them.

Mary Beth Bowling, Deer Run Director

Being director of Camp Deer Run is the best job I have ever had! Sure, I have worked with kids in many other settings. During the year, I teach middle school Language Arts and Latin at Cornerstone Christian Academy in Ossipee, NH. I have also been a church youth director and have led wilderness trips for organizations such as Outward Bound.

But nothing beats being a camp director! Where else can a grown woman dress up crazy everyday, sing Disney songs at the top of her lungs and eat s’mores on a regular basis? I love seeing the joy on a young girl’s face when she hits the target in Archery for the first time. I love being in the parking lot when a van arrives back from a three-day hike and seeing the pride the girls have in their accomplishment. I love sitting by a campfire at night and hearing campers share what they have learned about the love of God while at camp.

I am also a mom of two teenage daughters, so I understand the pressures of parenting today. I am so thankful for camp in my own children’s lives as their camp counselors have had such a lasting impact on their faith and character. I hear the same thing from so many parents of campers. Camp is a place that offers acceptance, challenge and Christ-centered values—all wrapped up in incredible fun!

George Bowling, Tripping Director

One of the most central areas at camp is our Tripping Program. George Bowling (pictured above with Mary Beth and their family) supervises a large Tripping staff that take each cabin on an overnight hike or canoe experience every two weeks at camp. George’s personal outdoor skills are legendary; he has even started a fire in the rain with a bag of Doritos!

Matt Ericson, Facilities Director

Matt and his wife Caitlin were both on staff here at camp. Matt keeps our facility in tip-top shape. He and Caitlin have a young son Elijah and recently added a little girl, Aria who keep them on their toes!

Dorothy Legro, Registrar

Dorothy joined our team in September 2018. She has enjoyed a career working with various organizations and providing great customer service. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Alton with her two dogs, Ben and Jerry, for several years. She is happy to answer all your questions about camp and make sure that you have your camper’s paperwork completed correctly.

Bob Strodel, Executive Director and Debbie Strodel, Bookkeeper

Bob is a second generation Camp Director and attended Brookwoods as a camper. He met Debbie when they were on staff at another Christian camp in Massachusetts. Bob and Debbie have two grown children who have come up through the program at Brookwoods and Deer Run!

Mike Brigham, Facility Staff

Mike has been part of the facility staff since 2000. He enjoys kayaking and hiking, and is currently working on hiking all the 4000ft peaks in New Hampshire. Mike has two grown daughters.

Melissa Yonan, Director of Alumni Relations

Melissa has been a part of the camp family since 1982 and has “done it all” at camp! She is responsible for our vast alumni network and serves as editor for the camp newsletter, TheWeathervane, as well as Director for our annual Alumni Camp weekend.

Todd Edgerton, Food Service Director

Todd joined us as our Food Service Director in 2012. He and his wife Lori and their 4 children are a big part of camp life. Todd is an excellent cook and makes an impressive salsa.

Our family of camps seek to foster vibrant Christian communities located in awe-inspiring outdoor settings in which young people are spiritually transformed through Christ-centered relationships.